Mayor Bloomberg today announced that more than $32 million has been raised to date by the Mayor’s Fund to Advance New York City for the City’s emergency response needs and long-term restoration efforts from more than 10,000 donors from around the country. One hundred percent of all donations will be dispersed to support relief efforts and organizations, as the Mayor’s Fund does not retain an administrative fee.

Donations are being used to address the most immediate needs in hurricane affected neighborhoods, including water, hot food, toiletries, baby supplies, warm clothing and blankets, cleaning materials and other supplies. The funds raised will also address long-term needs, including housing and other efforts re-build and restore neighborhoods and communities affected by Hurricane Sandy. The Mayor’s Fund to Advance New York City is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization dedicated to innovative public-private partnerships and programs for the City of New York.

“Over the past week, thousands of people from around the city and across the country have stepped forward to help New Yorkers whose lives have been turned upside down by Hurricane Sandy,” said Mayor Bloomberg. “I want to thank everyone who has given – your generosity is helping our city to get back on its feet – and I encourage everyone who would like to give to visit NYC.gov or call 311. We’ve made it as easy as possible to donate, and the incredible response from private citizens and public-spirited corporations is a testament to the strength and resilience of our city and the unity of the American people.”

“The Mayor’s Fund is working to help those hardest hit by Hurricane Sandy, addressing both immediate needs and the difficult work of rebuilding and restoration that will take place in the weeks and months ahead,” said Mayor’s Fund Advisory Chair Rob Speyer. “We are grateful for the support we have received in this short time and encourage even more New Yorkers to help one another through this period of recovery by donating to the Mayor’s Fund.”

To help small businesses affected by the hurricane, Goldman Sachs will provide $5 million in loans for businesses to match the $5 million provided by the New York City Economic Development Corporation.

Several companies have also established matching gift programs for their employees and businesses such as Modell's, Tory Burch LLC, The Sak Brand Group and Me&Ro jewelry are dedicating sale proceeds to the relief fund. Bloomingdale’s National Water Campaign “Every Bottle Counts” will benefit the Fund. In addition to this list there are hundreds of other companies, small businesses and individuals who have donated in-kind products and services from across the five boroughs. This list will continue to be updated online.

“We have seen a tremendous outpouring of compassion and generosity that New Yorkers are known for, especially in times of crisis,” said Council Speaker Christine C. Quinn. “The charitable support from private companies and individuals alike are a vital part of relief efforts that will help our communities recover. To everyone who has generously contributed to these efforts, thank you. And if you are still able to give, please do. New Yorkers will come out of this disaster renewed and stronger for having helped each other and the city we love.”

“New York’s business community faces significant challenges from the storm but is responding to the desperate needs of our city and so many of its citizens with a huge outpouring of charitable support and volunteer service,” said Kathryn Wylde President & CEO of the Partnership for New York City, “We are grateful to the Mayor for his leadership in this massive relief and recovery effort.”